How to prepare for a video visit about Biliary Colic (Gallbladder Pain) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Biliary colic is a type of pain caused by problems with the gallbladder, often due to gallstones blocking bile flow. In children, this pain can be sudden and intense, usually felt in the upper right belly area. Preparing for a video visit about biliary colic helps you share important details with your healthcare provider so they can guide you on next steps. During the visit, the provider will ask about the pain, other symptoms, and medical history. They may recommend tests or in-person care if needed. Telemedicine can help with initial advice and triage but cannot replace urgent physical exams or procedures. Knowing when to seek emergency care is important. This guide helps you get ready for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know what to do after your appointment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe abdominal pain lasting more than 2 hours — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with pain — contact emergency services.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Providing education about biliary colic and gallbladder pain.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person or emergency care.
• Follow-up advice after initial evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Ordering and interpreting imaging tests or blood work directly during the visit.
• Providing emergency treatment for severe pain or complications.
• Performing surgical or procedural interventions.

What is Biliary Colic?

Biliary colic is pain caused by the gallbladder when bile flow is blocked, often by gallstones. It usually causes sudden, sharp pain in the upper right side of the belly or under the ribs. The pain may last from minutes to a few hours and often happens after eating fatty meals. Children can experience biliary colic, though it is less common than in adults.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get ready for your video visit, gather information about your child's symptoms. Note when the pain started, how often it happens, how long it lasts, and what makes it better or worse. Also, prepare to share any other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). Have a list of current medications and any past medical conditions ready. Make sure your device has a good internet connection and a quiet space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's pain and symptoms. They may guide you to show the area of pain or observe your child's behavior. Based on the information, they might suggest tests such as blood work or ultrasound, or recommend an in-person visit if urgent care is needed. The provider will also discuss ways to manage pain and when to seek emergency help.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Certain signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention. These include severe belly pain lasting more than a few hours, high fever, persistent vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or confusion and difficulty staying awake. If any of these happen, go to the nearest emergency department immediately rather than waiting for a video visit.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include scheduling tests, starting medications, or watching for symptoms. Keep track of any changes in your child's condition and reach out if new symptoms develop or if the pain worsens. Make sure to attend any recommended follow-up appointments.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start time, frequency, and duration of your child's pain episodes.
• List any other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, or jaundice.
• Prepare a list of current medications and any known medical conditions.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet connection.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have a family member present if possible to help with the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider.
• Schedule recommended tests such as ultrasound or blood tests.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Seek emergency care if red-flag symptoms appear.
• Attend all follow-up appointments as advised.

FAQs

What causes biliary colic in children?

Biliary colic in children is often caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts, but other issues like infections or inflammation can also cause similar pain. Gallstones are less common in children than adults but can occur due to certain medical conditions or family history.

Can a video visit diagnose biliary colic?

A video visit can help gather important information about symptoms and guide next steps, but it cannot confirm a diagnosis. Physical exams and tests like ultrasound are usually needed to diagnose biliary colic.

What should I do if my child has severe pain during the video visit?

If your child experiences severe pain that does not improve, or if they have other serious symptoms like high fever or jaundice, seek emergency medical care immediately rather than waiting for the video visit to end.

Are there ways to relieve biliary colic pain at home?

Sometimes, pain may improve with rest and avoiding fatty foods. However, always follow your healthcare provider's advice. Do not give any medications without consulting a provider, especially in children.

How urgent is biliary colic in children?

Biliary colic can range from mild to severe. While some episodes resolve on their own, others may signal complications requiring urgent care. It's important to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice promptly.

Sources

1. Biliary Colic — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Gallstones in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Gallbladder Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need To Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.